We West Valley-ers have long had to make the trip to Studio City, Sherman Oaks or at the very least Encino to find a restaurant that offers something a bit interesting, innovative, and stylish for our dining experience. Could it be that those days are coming to an end? Perhaps not in the near future, but there is hope in a new Woodland Hills establishment, “The Local Peasant.”

In a large, open, warehouse-like space, with the entire front wall open to the street and outdoor seating, the atmosphere is that of a lively, urban pub. In a nod to the current cocktail culture, the drink menu is divided into pre and post-prohibition cocktails. It’s nice that they give as much attention to the classics (sidecar, negroni) as to their own innovative concoctions, our favorites being the “Gordon’s Cup” and the “Basil Pepper Martini.”

The food is a modern spin on your typical bar fare- homemade salt & vinegar crisps, cheese fritters, meatballs, and porkbelly with pickled watermelon rind and tamarind. The “Bacon & Eggs” pairs deviled eggs with brown sugar chili applewood smoked bacon…mmmm! There are gluten-free and vegan choices, such as the standout edamame vegetable salad with corn, roasted peppers, jicama, and avocado- a perfect choice if you want something light and healthy after pigging out on porkbelly! There are also more substantial dishes, such as pizzas, chicken stew, salmon and lamb shank. We haven’t been here enough times to try all of it yet, but we will definitely be working on it.

The Local Peasant was a very welcome surprise for us here in the West Valley. It’s a fun, stylish restaurant with innovative food and drinks that would definitely hold it’s own in West Hollywood- but we’re glad to have it here in Woodland Hills. And I dare say, if you are living in West Hollywood, it’s well worth a trip over the hill!